The annual NAIDOC Week Flag Raising ceremony in Cootamundra was held on Monday morning, to mark the start of NAIDOC Week 2024. The ceremony took place in the Max Whitteron Gardens at the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council (CGRC), precinct.
The rain held off for visitors to enjoy the event, which was officiated by Deputy Mayor Cr Gil Kelly.
Cr Kelly said NAIDOC Week is an essential week of the year as it provides an opportunity for all Australians to recognise and celebrate the rich culture, history, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Local indigenous leader Mr Peter Beath Welcomed all to Country, whilst Murry Izzard played the Didgeridoo. The flags were raised by two young indigenous people with Mr Beath assisting.
“NAIDOC Week is a beautiful and significant time to come together as one and celebrate the wonderful Indigenous cultures of this land. It is a time to subscribe to reconciliation and to work towards creating a brighter, stronger, and fairer future for all Australians,” Cr Kelly said.
The Cootamundra Town Hall was decorated with indigenous art, native flora and set up for a delicious morning tea. The walls were also adorned with the colourful entries from the recent children’s colouring competition marking NAIDOC Week 2024.
A Flag Raising ceremony will be held in Gundagai on Friday at 10am in the Gundagai Council Chambers site, Sheridan Street Gundagai.
Picture and caption:
Peter Beath member of CAWP (Cootamundra Aboriginal Working Party), welcomes all to country in native Wiradjuri language, prior to the annual flag raising and morning tea event held in Cootamundra on Monday morning.
